U.S. patent application number 14/046543 was filed with the patent office on 2014-07-24 for storing non-real time content.
This patent application is currently assigned to Sony Corporation. The applicant listed for this patent is Sony Corporation. Invention is credited to Luke FAY, Frederick J. ZUSTAK.
Application Number | 20140208380 14/046543 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 51208816 |
Filed Date | 2014-07-24 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140208380 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
FAY; Luke ; et al. |
July 24, 2014 |
STORING NON-REAL TIME CONTENT
Abstract
A method is provided for a reception apparatus to store
non-real-time (NRT) content. The method includes receiving, by the
reception apparatus, the NRT content included in a digital
television broadcast signal broadcast from a content source. The
received NRT content, included in the digital television broadcast
signal broadcast from the content source, is stored in a memory of
the reception apparatus. The reception apparatus outputs the NRT
content stored in the memory for presentation to a user. The
reception apparatus receives a request to store the NRT content in
an external device and, in response, sends an instruction via a
communication network to store the NRT content in the external
device.
Inventors: |
FAY; Luke; (San Diego,
CA) ; ZUSTAK; Frederick J.; (Poway, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Sony Corporation |
Tokyo |
|
JP |
|
|
Assignee: |
Sony Corporation
Tokyo
JP
|
Family ID: |
51208816 |
Appl. No.: |
14/046543 |
Filed: |
October 4, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61756252 |
Jan 24, 2013 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
725/134 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04N 21/4622 20130101;
H04N 21/433 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
725/134 |
International
Class: |
H04N 21/433 20060101
H04N021/433 |
Claims
1. A reception apparatus, comprising: a receiver configured to
receive non-real-time (NRT) content included in a digital
television broadcast signal broadcast from a content source; a
memory configured to store the received NRT content included in the
digital television broadcast signal broadcast from the content
source; at least one processor configured to output the NRT content
stored in the memory for presentation to a user, to receive a
request to store the NRT content in an external device, and in
response to receiving the request to store the NRT content in the
external device, to send an instruction via a communication network
to store the NRT content in the external device.
2. The reception apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the
reception apparatus is a mobile device, and the receiver is
configured to receive the NRT content from a mobile network
operator (MNO) that receives the digital television broadcast
signal broadcast from the content source and downloads the NRT
content from the digital television broadcast signal.
3. The reception apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the at
least one processor is configured, in response to receiving the
request to store the NRT content in the external device to instruct
the MNO to store the NRT content in the external device.
4. The reception apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the at
least one processor is configured, in response to receiving the
request to store the NRT content, to send the NRT content stored in
the memory to the external device via the communication
network.
5. The reception apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the at
least one processor is configured in response to a request for the
NRT content, to determine whether available storage capacity of the
memory is sufficient to store the NRT content, when the at least
one processor determines the storage capacity of the memory is
insufficient, to instruct the external device to store the NRT
content broadcast from the content source for subsequent streaming
to the reception apparatus, and when the at least one processor
determines the storage capacity of the memory is sufficient, to
store the received NRT content in the memory.
6. The reception apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the at
least one processor is configured, in response to receiving the
request to store the NRT content, to send an instruction to the
external device to download the NRT content from the digital
television broadcast signal broadcast from the content source.
7. The reception apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the
receiver includes a tuner configured to receive the digital
television broadcast signal.
8. The reception apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the NRT
content is associated with primary content included in the digital
television broadcast signal.
9. A method of a reception apparatus for storing non-real-time
(NRT) content, comprising: receiving, by a receiver of the
reception apparatus, the NRT content included in a digital
television broadcast signal broadcast from a content source;
storing, in a memory of the reception apparatus, the received NRT
content included in the digital television broadcast signal
broadcast from the content source; outputting, by the reception
apparatus, the NRT content stored in the memory for presentation to
a user; receiving, by a processor of the reception apparatus, a
request to store the NRT content in an external device; and in
response to receiving the request to store the NRT content in the
external device, sending an instruction via a communication network
to store the NRT content in the external device.
10. The method according to claim 9, wherein the reception
apparatus is a mobile device, and the step of receiving the NRT
content includes receiving the NRT content from a mobile network
operator (MNO) that receives the digital television broadcast
signal from the content source and downloads the NRT content from
the digital television broadcast signal.
11. The method according to claim 10, wherein the step of sending
the instruction comprises: sending the instruction to the MNO to
store the NRT content in the external device.
12. The method according to claim 9, wherein the step of sending
the instruction comprises: sending, by the reception apparatus, the
NRT content stored in the memory to the external device via the
communication network.
13. The method according to claim 9, further comprising: in
response to a request for the NRT content, determining whether
available storage capacity of the memory is sufficient to store the
NRT content, when the storage capacity of the memory is determined
to be insufficient, to instruct the external device to store the
NRT content broadcast from the content source for subsequent
streaming to the reception apparatus, and when the storage capacity
of the memory is determined to be sufficient, to perform the step
of storing in the memory of the reception apparatus the received
NRT content.
14. The method according to claim 9, further comprising: in
response to receiving the request to store the NRT content, sending
an instruction to the external device to download the NRT content
from the digital television broadcast signal broadcast from the
content source.
15. The method according to claim 9, wherein the step of receiving
the NRT content comprises: receiving, by a tuner of the receiver,
the digital television broadcast signal.
16. The method according to claim 9, wherein the NRT content is
associated with primary content included in the digital television
broadcast signal.
17. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having
embedded therein instructions which, when executed by a computer,
cause the computer to perform a method for storing non-real-time
(NRT) content, the method comprising: receiving, by a receiver of a
reception apparatus, the NRT content included in a digital
television broadcast signal broadcast from a content source;
storing, in a memory of the reception apparatus, the received NRT
content included in the digital television broadcast signal
broadcast from the content source; outputting, by the reception
apparatus, the NRT content stored in the memory for presentation to
a user; receiving, by a processor of the reception apparatus, a
request to store the NRT content in an external device; and in
response to receiving the request to store the NRT content in the
external device, sending an instruction via a communication network
to store the NRT content in the external device.
18. A distribution system, comprising: a receiver configured to
receive a digital television broadcast signal including
non-real-time (NRT) content broadcast from a content source; a
memory configured to store the NRT content broadcast from the
content source; at least one processor configured to provide the
NRT content to a reception apparatus, and to receive a request to
store the NRT content for retrieval on demand by a user.
19. The distribution system according to claim 18, wherein the at
least one processor is configured to provide the NRT content to the
reception apparatus in response to receiving a request for the NRT
content from the reception apparatus.
20. The distribution system according to claim 18, wherein the
distribution system is a mobile network operator (MNO), and the at
least one processor is configured to provide the NRT content to the
reception apparatus via an evolved Multicast Broadcast Multimedia
Service (eMBMS) signal broadcast from the distribution system.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is related to and claims priority under 35
U.S.C. .sctn.119(e) to U.S. provisional patent application No.
61/756,252, filed Jan. 24, 2013, which is incorporated herein by
reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] Embodiments described herein relate generally to storing and
accessing content. More particularly, embodiments described herein
relate generally to the storing and accessing of non-real-time
(NRT) content broadcast from a content source.
[0004] 2. Background
[0005] Modern consumer electronic devices such as televisions, set
top boxes, mobile devices, etc. are capable of receiving a
plurality of different types of content. Depending on the type of
consumer electronic device, the content can be broadcast, streamed,
or retrieved and stored locally for presentation to a user.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, there
is provided a reception apparatus. The reception apparatus includes
a receiver, a memory, and at least one processor. The receiver is
configured to receive non-real-time (NRT) content included in a
digital television broadcast signal broadcast from a content
source. The memory is configured to store the received NRT content
included in the digital television broadcast signal broadcast from
the content source. The at least one processor is configured to
output the NRT content stored in the memory for presentation to a
user, and to receive a request to store the NRT content in an
external device. In response to receiving the request to store the
NRT content in the external device, the reception apparatus is
configured to send an instruction via a communication network to
store the NRT content in the external device.
[0007] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, there
is provided a method of a reception apparatus for storing NRT
content. The method includes receiving, by the reception apparatus,
the NRT content included in a digital television broadcast signal
broadcast from a content source. The received NRT content, included
in the digital television broadcast signal broadcast from the
content source, is stored in a memory of the reception apparatus.
The reception apparatus outputs the NRT content stored in the
memory for presentation to a user. The reception apparatus receives
a request to store the NRT content in an external device and, in
response, sends an instruction via a communication network to store
the NRT content in the external device.
[0008] Further, according to an embodiment of the present
disclosure, there is provided a non-transitory computer-readable
storage medium having instructions embedded therein, which, when
executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the method of
the reception apparatus discussed above.
[0009] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, there
is provided a distribution system. The distribution system includes
a receiver, memory, and at least one processor. The receiver is
configured to receive a digital television broadcast signal
including non-real-time (NRT) content broadcast from a content
source. The memory is configured to store the NRT content broadcast
from the content source. The at least one processor is configured
to provide the NRT content to a reception apparatus, and to receive
a request to store the NRT content for retrieval on demand by a
user.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] A more complete appreciation of the invention and many of
the attendant advantages thereof will be readily obtained as the
same becomes better understood by reference to the following
detailed description when considered in connection with the
accompanying drawings, wherein:
[0011] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary system for storing and/or
accessing NRT content;
[0012] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an exemplary reception
apparatus;
[0013] FIG. 3 is a processor-centric block diagram of an exemplary
reception apparatus;
[0014] FIG. 4 is a processor-centric block diagram of an exemplary
mobile network operator (MNO);
[0015] FIG. 5 is an exemplary computer;
[0016] FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary system for providing NRT
content;
[0017] FIG. 7 illustrates another example of a system for providing
NRT content;
[0018] FIG. 8 illustrates a flow diagram of an exemplary method for
accessing NRT content;
[0019] FIG. 9 illustrates a flow diagram of an exemplary method for
NRT content selection;
[0020] FIG. 10 illustrates a flow diagram of an exemplary method
for determining whether NRT content is downloadable from an
external device;
[0021] FIG. 11 illustrates an exemplary system for storing NRT
content;
[0022] FIG. 12 illustrates a flow diagram of an exemplary method
for storing NRT content in an external device;
[0023] FIG. 13 illustrates a flow diagram of an exemplary method
for determining whether the NRT content can be stored locally;
[0024] FIG. 14 illustrates an exemplary MPEG-2 Transport Stream
(TS);
[0025] FIG. 15 illustrates an exemplary Internet Protocol (IP)
packet for the NRT content; and
[0026] FIG. 16 illustrates an example of information carried in a
Service Signal Channel (SSC).
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0027] While this invention is susceptible of embodiment in many
different forms, there is shown in the drawings and will herein be
described in detail specific embodiments, with the understanding
that the present disclosure of such embodiments is to be considered
as an example of the principles and not intended to limit the
invention to the specific embodiments shown and described. In the
description below, like reference numerals are used to describe the
same, similar or corresponding parts in the several views of the
drawings.
[0028] The terms "a" or "an", as used herein, are defined as one or
more than one. The term "plurality", as used herein, is defined as
two or more than two. The term "another", as used herein, is
defined as at least a second or more. The terms "including" and/or
"having", as used herein, are defined as comprising (i.e., open
language). The term "coupled", as used herein, is defined as
connected, although not necessarily directly, and not necessarily
mechanically. The term "program" or "computer program" or similar
terms, as used herein, is defined as a sequence of instructions
designed for execution on a computer system. A "program", or
"computer program", may include a subroutine, a program module, a
script, a function, a procedure, an object method, an object
implementation, in an executable application, an applet, a servlet,
a source code, an object code, a shared library/dynamic load
library and/or other sequence of instructions designed for
execution on a computer system.
[0029] The term "program", as used herein, may also be used in a
second context (the above definition being for the first context).
In the second context, the term is used in the sense of a
"television program". In this context, the term is used to mean any
coherent sequence of audio/video content such as those which would
be interpreted as and reported in an electronic program guide (EPG)
as a single television program, without regard for whether the
content is a movie, sporting event, segment of a multi-part series,
news broadcast, etc. The term may also be interpreted to encompass
commercial spots and other program-like content which may not be
reported as a program in an electronic program guide.
[0030] Reference throughout this document to "one embodiment",
"certain embodiments", "an embodiment", "an implementation", "an
example" or similar terms means that a particular feature,
structure, or characteristic described in connection with the
embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present
disclosure. Thus, the appearances of such phrases or in various
places throughout this specification are not necessarily all
referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular
features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any
suitable manner in one or more embodiments without limitation.
[0031] The term "or" as used herein is to be interpreted as an
inclusive or meaning any one or any combination. Therefore, "A, B
or C" means "any of the following: A; B; C; A and B; A and C; B and
C; A, B and C". An exception to this definition will occur only
when a combination of elements, functions, steps or acts are in
some way inherently mutually exclusive.
[0032] Embodiments of the disclosure are described with respect to
NRT content provided in a digital television broadcast signal
broadcast by a content source. In one embodiment, the NRT content
is broadcast by the content source in advance of use (i.e., not
streaming content), for example, as defined in ATSC standard
A/103.
[0033] Examples of NRT content include any one or a combination of
media content such as video/audio entertainment programming
including television programs, movies, events (e.g., sporting
events), music, and radio programs, push video on demand (e.g.,
content ranging from short-form video clips to feature length
movies); printed publications (e.g., magazines); news information
and weather services; personalized television channels; reference
information on a wide range of topics; web pages; web-portals; news
feeds; etc. Examples of non-media content include software
applications, software updates, data files, etc. NRT content is
also described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,099,752 and 8,250,607 which are
incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
[0034] In some embodiments, the NRT content is associated with
primary content, which is included in the digital television
broadcast signal. In one embodiment, the primary content includes
one or more television programs that are broadcast in real-time.
The NRT content is presented to a user during the broadcast of the
primary content. In another embodiment a user is simply notified of
the availability of the NRT content. For example, a movie
advertisement presented during a commercial break in the primary
content may be associated with NRT content including the movie for
download. In another example, when the primary content is a
sporting event, the primary content may be associated with NRT
content that includes player statistics.
[0035] Although embodiments of the present disclosure are described
with respect to NRT content that is broadcast in a digital
television broadcast signal by a content source via a terrestrial
broadcast transmission, the NRT content, and any associated primary
content, may be provided via other communication methods such as
via the Internet, cable television transmission, satellite
television transmission, radio transmission, or other broadcast or
communication networks such as a private local area network (LAN),
a mobile data network (e.g., 3G, 4G, or Long Term Evolution (LTE)
mobile data networks), evolved Multicast Broadcast Multimedia
Service (eMBMS) broadcast, etc. eMBMS is defined in the 3GPP
specifications, which include release 1999 and releases 4-12
incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
[0036] Further, although embodiments of the present disclosure are
described with respect to NRT content. Other types of content,
including the primary content and/or other real-time content, can
be accessed or stored in other embodiments.
[0037] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary system 2 for storing and/or
accessing NRT content. The system is configured to provide NRT
content to a plurality of reception apparatuses 20a-20d. The system
2 includes a content source 10 (e.g., a digital television
broadcaster), the reception apparatuses 20a-20d, a cloud-based
storage system 40, and a mobile network operator (MNO) 50. The
reception apparatuses 20a, 20b are connected to a home network 35a.
The reception apparatus 20c is connected to a home network 35b. In
one embodiment, the home networks 35a, 35b are associated with
different subnets. In another embodiment, each of the reception
apparatuses 20a-20d is connected to the same subnet. The content
source 10, cloud-based storage system 40, MNO 50, and home networks
35a, 35b are connected to the Internet 30.
[0038] The system 2 is not limited to the specific number of, and
connections between, the networks and components illustrated in
FIG. 1. It should be understood that, in other embodiments, any
number of each component (including zero), or combination thereof,
can be included in the system 2. Further, the reception apparatuses
20a-20d may be communicatively coupled to each over any one or a
combination of different communication networks (e.g., local area
network, wireless local area network, wide area network, cellular
network, cable television network, home network, Internet,
etc.).
[0039] The content source 10 broadcasts a digital television
broadcast signal carrying content, including primary and/or NRT
content. It is noted that the NRT content need not be associated
with primary content. In the case of primary content, the
audio/video content is divided into a video elementary stream (ES)
and an audio ES corresponding to the video and audio portions of
the content. The video ES and audio ES are multiplexed with the NRT
content to form a broadcast multiplex, such as an MPEG-2 Transport
Stream (TS).
[0040] In other embodiments, the content source 10 provides the
primary and/or NRT content via one or a combination of the
terrestrial broadcast, a satellite broadcast, a cable television
transmission, cellular network (e.g., eMBMS), and other data
communication networks such as a local area network (LAN), wide
area network (WAN), or the Internet 30.
[0041] The content source 10 broadcasts digital television
broadcast signals in accordance with, for example, standards set by
the Advanced Television Systems Committee (ATSC) such as ATSC
standards A/53, A/103, and/or A/153, which are incorporated herein
by reference in their entirety. For example, the content source 10
broadcasts content using a broadcast tower via a studio to
transmitter link (STL).
[0042] When a digital television broadcast signal includes primary
content and NRT content associated with the primary content, the
primary content corresponds to a main program while the NRT content
corresponds to supplemental content that is related to the main
program. For example, the primary content is a live basketball game
while the NRT content includes statistics for players playing in
the basketball game.
[0043] In one embodiment, the primary content provided by the
content source 10 includes one or more television programs, without
regard to whether the program is a movie, sporting event, segment
of a multi-part series, news broadcast, etc. Further, the primary
content provided by the content source 10 may also include
advertisements, infomercials, and other program-like content which
may not be reported as a program in an EPG.
[0044] The reception apparatuses 20a-20d receive the digital
television broadcast signal broadcast by the content source 10. In
one embodiment, when any one of the reception apparatuses 20a-20d
determines that NRT content is needed (e.g., to be presented to a
user), the one of the reception apparatuses 20a-20d determines
whether the NRT content is stored locally. When the NRT content is
determined not to be stored locally, the one of the reception
apparatuses 20a-20d determines whether the NRT content can be
downloaded, or otherwise retrieved, from an external device (e.g.,
another one of the reception apparatuses 20a-20d, the cloud-based
storage system 40, the MNO 50, the content source 10, etc.)
[0045] Further, in one embodiment, the reception apparatuses
20a-20d are configured to cause an external device (e.g., another
one of the reception apparatuses 20a-20d, the cloud-based storage
system 40, the MNO 50, the content source 10, etc.) to store
selected NRT content for subsequent retrieval on demand.
[0046] The MNO 50 is configured to communicate with the reception
apparatus 20d via a cellular network. In one embodiment, the
reception apparatus 20d is a mobile device such as a smartphone,
tablet computer, laptop, portable computer, etc. However, the
reception apparatus 20d may be a fixed or stationary device such as
a television set if configured to communicate over the cellular
network.
[0047] Depending on the embodiment, the MNO 50 receives none, one,
or a combination of the primary and NRT content broadcast from the
content source 10. In one embodiment, the MNO 50 receives and
stores the broadcast NRT content while the reception apparatus 20d
receives the primary content from the digital television broadcast
signal. In another embodiment, the MNO 50 receives both the primary
and NRT content and provides the same to the reception apparatus
20d via the cellular network, for example via an eMBMS
broadcast.
[0048] The cloud-based storage system 40 is configured to store a
copy of the NRT content for access on demand. Although the
cloud-based storage system 40 is illustrated as a separate
component in FIG. 1, in another embodiment, the cloud-based storage
system 40 or storage function thereof is incorporated in the
content source 10 or MNO 50. In other embodiments, the cloud-based
storage system 40 or storage function thereof is incorporated in a
consumer electronics device (e.g., a PC, another reception
apparatus, etc.). The cloud-based storage system 40 is configured
to automatically store NRT content provided by the content source
10, and/or store NRT content in response to a user request.
[0049] Fees can be assessed for the NRT content using one or a
combination of the Purchase Item Table (PIT) and Purchase Terms and
Channel Table (PTCT) defined in ATSC standard A/103. The PIT has
entries which define a purchase item which can be a service or
content. This can be thought of as a list of possible tagged items
offered for sale. The PTCT contains terms of a purchase (price) and
channel entries providing contact information. These two tables are
related and can reference each other to provide billing information
to broadcasters when a purchase is made. These tables are
referenced for sending information back to the NRT content provider
(e.g., content source 10).
[0050] In some embodiments, the NRT content is subject to digital
rights management (DRM), which is handled by the reception
apparatus 20 or embedded into the NRT content provided to the
reception apparatus 20. For example, the reception apparatus 20 can
prohibit the transfer of received NRT content to another device,
limit the number of times the on-demand content can be played back,
etc.
[0051] In some embodiments, NRT content is associated with a
triggered declarative object (TDO) trigger and/or TDO. In one
embodiment, the TDO trigger identifies a particular TDO to be
executed during a primary content broadcast. The TDO notifies the
user of the availability of the NRT content or causes the reception
apparatus 20 to automatically present the NRT content. In another
embodiment, the TDO trigger identifies NRT content to be downloaded
in advance.
[0052] In one embodiment, the TDO trigger includes primary content
and TDO identifiers. The primary content identifier is used by the
reception apparatus 20 to determine which content the TDO trigger
is associated with, and the TDO identifier is used by the reception
apparatus 20 to determine which TDO to execute in response to the
TDO trigger. Further, in one embodiment, the TDO trigger references
the location where an associated TDO may be acquired, such as a
file name or identifier for a file that has already been downloaded
via NRT services.
[0053] The TDO is a downloadable software object. Generally, such
objects have declarative content (e.g., text, graphics, scripts,
and audio) whose function and behavior is tied in some way to the
content it is associated with. The TDO can be stored in the
reception apparatus 20 in advance or retrieved when an associated
TDO trigger is activated during a primary content broadcast.
Various standards bodies may define associated available behaviors,
appearance, trigger actions, and transport methods for content and
metadata for a TDO.
[0054] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary reception apparatus 20. The
reception apparatus 20 includes a digital television receiver
device that is incorporated into a fixed or mobile device such as a
television set, a set top box, smartphone, tablet computer, laptop,
portable computer, or any other device configured to receive
television content.
[0055] The reception apparatus 20 includes a tuner/demodulator 202,
which receives digital television broadcast signals from one or
more content sources (e.g., content source 10) via, for example, a
terrestrial broadcast. Depending on the embodiment, the reception
apparatus 20 may alternatively or additionally be configured to
receive a cable television transmission or a satellite broadcast.
The tuner/demodulator 202 receives an MPEG-2 TS, which is
demultiplexed by the demultiplexer 206 into audio and video (A/V)
streams. The audio is decoded by an audio decoder 210 and the video
is decoded by a video decoder 214. Further, uncompressed A/V data
may be received via an uncompressed A/V interface (e.g., a HDMI
interface), if available.
[0056] In one embodiment, the MPEG-2 TS includes supplemental data
such as one or a combination of closed caption data, a TDO, a TDO
trigger, a virtual channel table, EPG data, NRT content, etc. The
supplemental data are separated out by the demultiplexer 206.
However, the A/V content and/or the supplemental data may be
received via the Internet 30 and a network interface 226. Further,
an instruction to store the NRT content in an external device may
be sent via the network interface 226.
[0057] A storage unit 230 is provided to store the NRT or
Internet-delivered content such as Internet Protocol Television
(IPTV). The stored content can be played by demultiplexing the
content stored in the storage unit 230 by the demultiplexer 206 in
a manner similar to that of other sources of content.
Alternatively, the stored content may be processed and presented to
the user by the CPU 238. The storage unit 230 may also store any
other supplemental data acquired by the reception apparatus 20.
[0058] The reception apparatus 20 generally operates under control
of at least one processor, such as the CPU 238, which is coupled to
a working memory 240, program memory 242, and a graphics subsystem
244 via one or more buses (e.g., bus 250). The CPU 238 receives
closed caption data from the demultiplexer 206 as well as any other
supplemental data used for rendering graphics, and passes
appropriate instructions and data to the graphics subsystem 244.
The graphics outputted by the graphics subsystem 244 are combined
with video images by the compositor and video interface 260 to
produce an output suitable for display on a video display.
[0059] Further, the CPU 238 operates to carry out functions of the
reception apparatus 20 including the processing of NRT content, TDO
triggers, TDOs, EPG data, etc. For example, the CPU 238 operates to
execute script objects (control objects) contained in the TDO, its
trigger(s), etc., using for example a Declarative Object (DO)
Engine stored in the program memory 242.
[0060] Although not illustrated in FIG. 2, the CPU 238 may be
coupled to any one or a combination of the reception apparatus 20
resources to centralize control of one or more functions. In one
embodiment, the CPU 238 also operates to oversee control of the
reception apparatus 20 including the tuner/demodulator 202 and
other television resources.
[0061] A more processor-centric view of the reception apparatus 20
is illustrated in FIG. 3. Storage 230 and memories 240, 242 are
depicted collectively as memory 310. Further, at least one
processor 300 includes one or more processing units such as CPU
238. Similarly, the various demodulators, decoders, etc., that
initially process digital television broadcast signals are
collectively depicted as television receiver/tuner 330. The
reception apparatus 20 further includes a network interface 326 and
a remote controller 360 which communicates with a remote controller
receiver interface 350. When the reception apparatus 20 is
incorporated in a mobile device, the remote controller 360 and
remote controller receiver interface 350 may be replaced with
another input interface such as a keypad, touch screen, etc.
[0062] Additionally, a display 380 is connected to a display
interface 340, which includes for example the uncompressed A/V
interface and/or compositor 260, and is either a display integral
to the reception apparatus 20 as in a television set or mobile
device, or a connected display device as in the case where the
reception apparatus 20 is integrated into a set-top box.
[0063] Memory 310 contains various functional program modules and
data. The memory 310 stores the data used by the reception
apparatus 20. The memory 310 within the reception apparatus 20 can
be implemented using disc storage form as well as other forms of
storage such as non-transitory storage devices including for
example network memory devices, magnetic storage elements,
magneto-optical storage elements, flash memory, core memory and/or
other non-volatile storage technologies. The term "non-transitory"
is a limitation of the medium itself (i.e., tangible, not a signal)
as opposed to a limitation on data storage persistency (e.g., RAM
vs. ROM).
[0064] Any received TDO triggers 316, TDOs 318, EPG data 320,
and/or NRT content 322 can be stored in the memory 310.
[0065] In one embodiment, the TDO execution is carried out by a
Declarative Object (DO) Engine 312, which is also stored in the
memory 310. The TDO, when executed by the DO Engine 312, notifies a
user of available NRT content, notifies the user of a service for
storing the NRT content in an external device for subsequent access
on demand, causes the reception apparatus 20 to retrieve and/or
present the NRT content, etc.
[0066] FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary MNO 50. The MNO 50 includes
a processor 402, a memory 410, a communication interface 420, a
cellular network 430, and a television receiver/tuner 440.
[0067] In one embodiment, the MNO 50 is configured to receive, via
the television receiver/tuner 440, a digital television broadcast
signal broadcast by a content source 10. The MNO 50 is configured
to receive primary and/or NRT content for one or more local areas
(i.e., market(s)). The MNO 50, for example via the processor 402,
extracts the primary and/or NRT content from the digital television
broadcast signal and provides the primary and/or NRT content to a
reception apparatus 20 via a cellular network 430.
[0068] The MNO 50 is configured to provide the primary content to
the reception apparatus 20, for example when the reception
apparatus 20 is not capable (e.g., lacking appropriate hardware or
signal strength) of receiving the digital television broadcast
signal. For example, in one embodiment, the primary and/or NRT
content is streamed to or file downloaded by the reception
apparatus 20. Further, when the MNO 50 receives primary and/or NRT
content from more than one local areas, in one embodiment, the MNO
50 is configured to provide the primary and/or NRT content from a
particular local area to the reception apparatus 20 based on one or
a combination of predetermined criteria. For example, the MNO 50
may be configured to provide the primary and/or NRT content to the
reception apparatus 20 based on a predetermined home market of the
reception apparatus 20.
[0069] In other embodiments, the MNO 50 is configured to receive
the primary and/or NRT content via the Internet, a dedicated
transmission from the content source 10, or other sources such as a
cable television provider or satellite television provider. When
receiving the primary and/or NRT content via the Internet, the
primary and/or NRT content may received via streaming or file
download using the communication interface 420.
[0070] Depending on the embodiment, the MNO 50 provides the primary
and/or NRT content via one or a combination of an eMBMS broadcast
and a mobile data network service (e.g., LTE). In other
embodiments, the MNO 50 is, alternatively or additionally,
configured to provide the primary and/or NRT content via the
Internet (e.g., via WiFi), or other wireless communication methods
(e.g., Bluetooth).
[0071] Further, in one embodiment, the MNO 50 is configured to
facilitate storage of select NRT content 414, in the memory 410,
and subsequent retrieval on demand. In another embodiment, the MNO
stores one or more addresses identifying locations (e.g., an
external server) at which the select NRT 414 content is stored. In
one embodiment, the MNO 50 is further configured to store primary
content 412 and/or one or more addresses identifying locations at
which the primary content 42 is stored. Other supplemental content
416 provided with the primary and/or NRT content 412, 414 may also
be stored in the memory 410.
[0072] FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware
configuration of a computer 500 that can be configured to perform
functions of any one or a combination of the content source 10,
reception apparatus 20, cloud-based storage system 40, MNO 50, and
external storage device.
[0073] As illustrated in FIG. 5, the computer 500 includes a
central processing unit (CPU) 502, read only memory (ROM) 504, and
a random access memory (RAM) 506 interconnected to each other via
one or more buses 508. The one or more buses 508 are further
connected with an input-output interface 510. The input-output
interface 510 is connected with an input portion 512 formed by a
keyboard, a mouse, a microphone, remote controller, etc. The
input-output interface 510 is also connected to an output portion
514 formed by an audio interface, video interface, display,
speaker, etc.; a recording portion 516 formed by a hard disk, a
non-volatile memory or other non-transitory computer-readable
storage medium; a communication portion 518 formed by a network
interface, modem, USB interface, fire wire interface, etc.; and a
drive 520 for driving removable media 522 such as a magnetic disk,
an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, a semiconductor memory,
etc.
[0074] According to one embodiment, the CPU 502 loads a program
stored in the recording portion 516 into the RAM 506 via the
input-output interface 510 and the bus 508, and then executes a
program configured to provide the functionality of the one or
combination of the content source 10, reception apparatus 20,
cloud-based storage system 40, and MNO 50.
[0075] FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary system for providing NRT
content included in a digital television broadcast signal to a
plurality of different types of reception apparatuses 20f-20l. The
system enables reception apparatuses to share NRT content to allow
faster access and/or have smaller memory requirements. As described
below, in one embodiment, the NRT content is stored based on user
preferences, such as user viewing habits. However, in some cases,
new NRT content could be accessed more quickly if another local
device already has it stored as opposed to, for example, waiting
for a broadcast trickle download.
[0076] In one embodiment, the content source 10 provides next
generation television services (e.g., ATSC 2.0 services, NRT and
Internet connection interfacing) such as one or a combination of
auxiliary information, multi-view user interfaces, interactivity
and personalization, enhancements to programs due to Internet
connectivity, and the NRT content, in addition to traditional
television services (e.g., television programs).
[0077] Each of the reception apparatuses 20f-20l is of a stationary
(fixed) or mobile receiver type. The reception apparatuses 20f-20l
are configured to receive NRT content included in the digital
television broadcast signal by receiving the digital television
broadcast signal and downloading, or otherwise retrieving, the NRT
content from the digital television broadcast signal.
[0078] A return channel may be provided for any of the reception
apparatuses 20f-20l. In one embodiment, the return channel is an
Internet return channel that is consistent with the ATSC A/153
standard. Although meant for mobile receivers, such an Internet
return channel also applies to stationary receivers which also
decode the broadcasted primary and/or NRT content. The Internet
return channel allows a broadcaster (e.g., content source 10) to
get audience measurements like what is being watched; when. It also
provides a path for key delivery to unlock protected content (DRM),
billing information, etc.
[0079] In one embodiment, the reception apparatuses 20f, 20g
receive the NRT content using a FLUTE demultiplexer to separate out
IP packet (Digital Storage Media Command and Control (DSMCC))
content, a Service Map Table (SMT), NRT-Information Table (NRT-IT),
FLUTE Description Table (FDT) Parser to filter the NRT content, and
FDT with NRT Metadata ID to produce the NRT content (MPEG-2
transport/IP video/NRT Metadata/etc.). For example, as illustrated
in FIGS. 14-16, a program has an associated Program Identification
(PID) value which is used to tie audio/video content together for
presentation, or in this case indicate an IP packet encapsulated
into an MPEG-2 transport (DSMCC). Inside that IP packet are
source/destination IP addresses which show broadcaster/user
internet location addresses which go into the SMT. An NRT content
description is also included in the packet and a NRT-IT table is
filled up with that information which can point to the URL
locations of FLUTE supplied NRT Metadata (FDT).
[0080] The reception apparatuses 20i-20l are configured to receive
the NRT content included in the digital television broadcast signal
via an MNO 50, or other intermediary system that is configured to
provide the NRT content included in the digital television
broadcast signal to the reception apparatuses 20i-20l.
[0081] The MNO 50 is configured to receive the digital television
broadcast signal and download, or otherwise retrieve, the NRT
content, or receive a Transport Stream (TS) or Internet packets
including the NRT content from the content source 10 (e.g., a
broadcaster) via another communication means such as a direct link
or the Internet. In one embodiment, the MNO 50 is configured to
store one or a combination of a SMT, NRT-IT, FDT (NRT metadata),
store NRT content, open ports for NRT content capture/interactive
communication. In another embodiment, the MNO could put the burden
on the reception apparatus 20 and pass along the NRT-IT, FLUTE FDT,
NRT data descriptions/content to the reception apparatus 20 to
store the data. As described above, each program has an associated
PID value which is used to tie audio/video content together for
presentation, or in this case indicate an IP packet encapsulated
into an MPEG-2 transport (DSMCC). The MNO 50 can decide whether to
pass on the IP packets to receivers (e.g., reception apparatuses
20i-20k) or decode them and store the information (e.g., FMT,
NRT-IT, etc.) which can be referenced by the receivers. Each MNO
can decide on how much control they want. Inside the IP packet are
source/destination IP addresses which show broadcaster/user
internet location addresses which go into the SMT. NRT content
description is also included in the packet and a NRT-IT table is
filled up with that information which can point to the URL
locations of FLUTE supplied NRT Metadata (FDT).
[0082] In one embodiment, any of the reception apparatuses 20f-20l
have three ways to get NRT content. One is the content source 10
(e.g., the broadcaster) forces the NRT content to be stored on the
respective reception apparatus (PUSH) which the user can browse
through later. Another is to send a table of contents as it were
for the user to browse through and download content of interest
(BROWSE and DOWNLOAD). Or a Portal can be opened which the user can
use to download NRT data stored at the content source 10
(PORTAL).
[0083] The content source 10 may be configured to broadcast the
primary and/or NRT content in accordance with any one or a
combination of the ATSC A/53, A/103, and A/153 Standards.
[0084] FIG. 7 illustrates another example of a system for providing
NRT content included in a digital television broadcast signal to a
plurality of different types of reception apparatuses 20f-20n.
Since the NRT content can be stored by any combination of the
plurality of reception apparatuses 20f-20n that are part of one or
more subnets of addresses, storage across one or a combination of
the plurality of reception apparatuses 20f-20n is utilized to
retrieve the NRT content. Therefore, instead of limiting the NRT
content to one location (e.g., the digital television broadcast
signal), it is distributed across a plurality of locations.
[0085] In one embodiment, one or more of the reception apparatuses
20f-20n automatically downloads NRT content based on user
preferences (e.g., user viewing habits, specific request, etc.).
For example, the reception apparatus 20f automatically downloads
the NRT content associated with a predetermined number of most
frequently viewed television channels, favorite television
programs, viewing times, etc. When the NRT content is not
automatically downloaded and is to be presented to the user (e.g.,
in response to a user request), in one embodiment, the reception
apparatus 20f trickle downloads the NRT content from a digital
television signal broadcast carrying the NRT content.
[0086] However, in some cases, the NRT content can be downloaded
from another reception apparatus (or other external device) in a
shorter period of time. Accordingly, the reception apparatus 20f is
configured to determine whether the NRT content can be downloaded
from another reception apparatus that is accessible to the
reception apparatus 20f and to download the selected NRT content
from the other reception apparatus, if possible. In another
embodiment, the reception apparatus 20f estimates the times
required to trickle download the NRT content from the broadcast and
another reception apparatus, and downloads the NRT content from the
one of the broadcast or the other reception apparatus based on the
shortest estimated download time.
[0087] Accordingly, when a reception apparatus 20f determines that
selected NRT content is not stored locally, the reception apparatus
20f is configured to communicate with other reception apparatuses
(e.g., reception apparatus 20g) to determine whether the NRT
content can be downloaded from the other reception apparatus.
Depending on the embodiment, the reception apparatus 20f may be
limited to communicating only with other reception apparatuses
associated with the same user, household, community, service
provider, subnet, etc.
[0088] For example, when a user of a reception apparatus 20f wants
to watch a movie which has already been downloaded by another
reception apparatus (e.g., a neighbor's reception apparatus 20m),
the reception apparatus 20f downloads, or retrieves via other
methods such as streaming, the movie from the other reception
apparatus 20m.
[0089] The download of NRT content from another reception apparatus
or the broadcast also applies to mobile devices, such as
smartphones that communicate with the MNO, although storage
capacity in mobile devices can be limited. In one embodiment, the
mobile devices (e.g., reception apparatuses 20i-20l) access the
primary and/or NRT content from a common external storage area
(e.g., a predetermined external device) which is known by the MNO
50 or the mobile devices themselves.
[0090] FIG. 8 is a flow diagram of an exemplary method of a
reception apparatus 20 to access NRT content. In step S802, when
the reception apparatus 20 is equipped with a digital television
broadcast receiver, the reception apparatus 20 receives a digital
television broadcast signal broadcast from a content source 10. In
step S804, the reception apparatus 20 downloads a subset, or all,
of the NRT content included in the digital television broadcast
signal broadcast from the content source 10. In one embodiment, the
reception apparatus 20 is configured to receive digital television
broadcast signals from a plurality of content sources and to
download a subset of the NRT content included in one or a
combination of the digital television broadcast signals.
[0091] In another embodiment, when the reception apparatus 20 is
not equipped with a digital television broadcast receiver, the
reception apparatus 20 is configured to receive the NRT content
from an eMBMS signal broadcast from the MNO 50. In one embodiment,
the eMBMS signal is allocated one carrier within an orthogonal
frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) signal to be received by a
plurality of mobile devices (e.g., reception apparatuses 20i-20k).
Further, in one embodiment the eMBMS signal includes the same
information (e.g., same IP packets) included in the digital
television broadcast signal, such as the primary and/or NRT
content. In another embodiment, the eMBMS signal only includes the
primary content. In this embodiment, the reception apparatus 20
receives an eMBMS signal in step S802 and optionally downloads the
subset of NRT content included in the eMBMS signal in step
S804.
[0092] In step S806, the reception apparatus 20 receives a
selection of the NRT content included in the digital television
broadcast signal broadcast by the content source 10. The reception
apparatus 20 receives the selection from a user or determines the
NRT selection automatically using predetermined criteria. For
example, the reception apparatus may be configured to determine the
selection based on any one or a combination of user preference
information and information included in the digital television
broadcast signal (e.g., a trigger or TDO).
[0093] In step S808, the reception apparatus 20 determines whether
the selected NRT content is stored locally in memory, or at a
predetermined location. The reception apparatus 20 determines
whether the selected NRT content is stored locally using, for
example, an NRT identifier associated with the selected NRT
content. The NRT identifier uniquely identifies associated NRT
content. In one embodiment, the NRT identifier is acquired from a
Service Signaling Channel (SSC) included in the digital television
broadcast signal. In one embodiment, the NRT identifier is service
identifier included in the SSC or other identifying information
included in an NRT Information Table (NRT-IT) extracted from the
SSC. Other embodiments of the NRT identifier are illustrated in
FIG. 16 and include the service ID (which points to the NRT-IT), an
Icon Content-Linkage which directly points to FLUTE description
table content showing content addresses, and/or NRT metadata which
can be filtered out.
[0094] When the selected NRT content is determined to be stored
locally in step S808, the reception apparatus 20 performs no
further action with respect to the selected NRT content until
presentation or other action (e.g., remote storage) is requested.
However, when the reception apparatus 20 determines in step S808
that the NRT content is not stored in memory, the reception
apparatus 20 proceeds to step S810. In step S810, the reception
apparatus 20 determines whether the selected NRT content can be
downloaded from an external device (e.g., another reception
apparatus or other consumer electronics device) that is accessible
to the reception apparatus 20 via one or more communication
networks. An example of this determination is described below with
respect to FIG. 10.
[0095] When the selected NRT content is determined to be
downloadable from an external device, the reception apparatus 20
downloads, or otherwise retrieves, the selected NRT content from
the external device in step S812. In one embodiment, the selected
NRT content may be streamed from the external device. In another
embodiment, one or more NRT content files are downloaded from the
external device When the selected NRT content is determined not to
be downloadable from an external device, the reception apparatus 20
trickle downloads the selected NRT content from the digital
television broadcast signal broadcast by the content source 10 or
the eMBMS signal broadcast by the MNO 50.
[0096] FIG. 9 illustrates a flow diagram of an exemplary method for
selection of NRT content. In step S902, the reception apparatus 20
receives a list of NRT content broadcast from the content source
10. In one embodiment, the list of NRT content is extracted from
the SSC of a digital television broadcast signal. In another
embodiment, the list of NRT content is provided as supplemental
information in association with primary content. For example, the
list of NRT content may be provided by a TDO.
[0097] The list of the NRT content is displayed to a user of the
reception apparatus 20 in step S904. The user navigates through the
list to select NRT content of interest. When the user makes a
selection from the list of NRT content, the reception apparatus 20
receives the selection of the NRT content in step S906. In other
embodiments, the reception apparatus 20 performs the NRT content
selection.
[0098] FIG. 10 illustrates a flow diagram of an exemplary method of
a reception apparatus 20 for determining whether NRT content can be
downloaded, or otherwise retrieved, from an external device. As
illustrated in FIG. 10, in step S1002, the reception apparatus 20
determines whether selected NRT content can be downloaded from an
external device connected to the same subnet as the reception
apparatus 20. When the reception apparatus 20 determines that the
selected NRT content can be downloaded from an external device on
the same subnet, in step S1004, the reception apparatus proceeds to
download, or otherwise retrieve, the selected NRT content from the
external device.
[0099] In step S1006, the reception apparatus 20 determines whether
the selected NRT content can be downloaded from an external device
on another subnet when the selected NRT content is determined not
to be downloadable from an external device on the same subnet. When
downloadable, the reception apparatus 20 proceeds to step S1008 and
downloads, or otherwise retrieves, the selected NRT content from
the external device on the other subnet. When the NRT content is
determined not to be downloadable from the other subnet, in step
S1010, the reception apparatus 20 determines if there are any
remaining subnets to search. The reception apparatus 20 returns to
step S1006 if there is another subnet to search, otherwise the
reception apparatus 20 terminates the determination process.
[0100] For example, a search engine in the reception apparatus 20
may be configured to start with a user's network prefix and only
search for host devices within that prefix. If a host device
containing the NRT content is not found, the search engine opens up
the next closest network prefix and so on in a search for the NRT
content. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 15, for IPv4, there
are 4 byte addresses. The search engine will keep the MSB byte and
2 middle bytes the same and start altering the LSB byte address in
a search for NRT content. This LSB byte address keeps the internet
search close to the user's location. Then the search can expand up
into the upper bytes.
[0101] In one embodiment, each network prefix would look for the
SSC (stored locally with the IP address, for example, 224.0.23.60)
and quickly learn of NRT content availability. The search could be
binary based or based on other methods to find the NRT content
quickly. That IP address has NRT-IT information which houses
content addresses. Either work from the users' IP address or this
one or follow the NRT-IT tables of other close devices (e.g.,
reception apparatuses) to search for content.
[0102] In one embodiment, the search engine is configured to follow
NRT-IT information stored on other peoples' devices. (Keep a record
of the stored table of content addresses).
[0103] In one embodiment, the FLUTE FDT is formatted in a way for
quick IP address selection. For example, the search engine filters
for a predetermined field illustrated in FIG. 16. In one
embodiment, the search engine filters for id3 (Icon
Content-Linkage) which is housed in the SMT-MH table directly to
speed up the search process.
[0104] Once a content location is known, a reception apparatus 20
is configured to ask for the content (IP protocol) at the source
(known content location) from the user (receiver internet address).
IP protocol is followed to retrieve the information.
[0105] In one embodiment, when the NRT content is determined to be
downloadable from a plurality of external devices, the reception
apparatus 20 selects one of the plurality of external devices based
on a one or a combination criteria such as connection speed,
priority information, etc.
[0106] As described above, one or more subnets for NRT can be
expanded to include external devices. This is subject to personal
firewalls and user preferences being open to allow devices to
search for NRT content. Further, in one embodiment, when the NRT
content is simply referred to by an IP address, then it is open to
the Internet space where the NRT content can be retained.
[0107] FIG. 11 illustrates an exemplary system for storing NRT
content for subsequent access. In one embodiment, the NRT content
is stored such that it is accessible on demand. In other
embodiments, the NRT content may be forwarded to another user or
designated destination.
[0108] FIG. 11 illustrates an embodiment in which the reception
apparatus 20 is a mobile device. However, the storing of NRT
content is equally applicable to fixed devices configured to
receive content in a digital television broadcast signal. For
example, while watching NRT content on a mobile device, through
eMBMS or ATSC Mobile DTV (e.g., ATSC A/153), a user is able to
store the NRT content in an external device (e.g., cloud-based
storage system 40) for future viewing and avoid locally storing the
NRT content on the reception apparatus 20, which is likely to have
limited memory.
[0109] In one embodiment, the NRT content includes next generation
television services (e.g., ATSC 2.0 services), as described above.
The ATSC 2.0 NRT specification, ATSC A/103 calls for data to be
stored. Local storage of NRT content is possible if the NRT content
is small or if the reception apparatus 20 can support a fair amount
of memory. However, when the reception apparatus 20 is, for
example, a mobile device, memory may be a critical element and
costly. In this case, local storage of NRT content may not be
possible.
[0110] A content source 10 provides the NRT content, via broadcast
or the Internet, to one or a combination of a reception apparatus
20, LTE MNO 50a, and cloud-based storage system 40. In one
embodiment, the NRT content provided over the Internet is delivered
using the File Delivery over Unidirectional Transport protocol. The
reception apparatus 20 is configured to receive the NRT content via
one or a combination a digital television broadcast signal (e.g.,
ATSC A/153 Mobile DTV signal), an eMBMS signal broadcast from the
LTE MNO 50a, and a data service (e.g., smart phone data service)
provided by an MNO 50b. However, any one or a combination of MNOs
can be configured to provide the eMBMS broadcast and smartphone
data services.
[0111] The reception apparatus 20 is configured to store the NRT
content for subsequent access via the data service provided by the
MNO 50b. In response to receiving a request to store the NRT
content in an external device (e.g., the cloud-based storage system
40), the reception apparatus 20 is configured to send an
instruction to store the NRT content in the external device via the
data service. Depending on the embodiment, the reception apparatus
20 may or may not send the NRT content itself to the external
device.
[0112] For example, when the NRT content is stored in the reception
apparatus 20, the reception apparatus 20 is configured to provide
the NRT content to the external device for storage. In another
example, when the external device (e.g., the cloud-based storage
device 40) is configured to receive the NRT content from the
content source 10, the reception apparatus 20 may simply notify the
external device as to which NRT content to store. Alternatively,
when the MNO 50b is configured to receive the NRT content from the
content source 10, in one embodiment, the reception apparatus 20
instructs the MNO 50b to forward the NRT content to the cloud-based
storage system 40. Although illustrated separately, in one
embodiment, the cloud-based storage system 40 may be incorporated
into the MNO 50b or any other device (e.g., another reception
apparatus 20, a consumer electronics device, etc.) The external
device may be any networked device that is capable of storing the
NRT content.
[0113] In one embodiment, the reception apparatus 20, or other
consumer electronics device, accesses the stored NRT content files
using file delivery via FLUTE as defined for example in RFC 3926,
which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In other
embodiments, the NRT content is streamed via Dynamic Adaptive
Streaming for HTTP (DASH) or Real-time Transport Protocol (RTP)
over an IP network.
[0114] FIG. 12 is a flow diagram of an exemplary method of a
reception apparatus 20 for storing NRT content in an external
device for subsequent access on demand. In step S1202, the
reception apparatus 20 receives NRT content included in a digital
television broadcast signal broadcast from a content source 10. The
reception apparatus 20 receives the NRT content by receiving the
digital television broadcast signal, an EMBMS broadcast from an MNO
50, or data from an intermediary system.
[0115] In step S1204, the reception apparatus 20 stores the
received NRT content in a memory of the reception apparatus 20. In
one embodiment, the reception apparatus 20 determines whether the
storage capacity of the memory of the reception apparatus 20 is
sufficient to store the NRT content prior to storing the received
NRT content in the memory, as illustrated in FIG. 13.
[0116] As illustrated in FIG. 13, the reception apparatus 20
determines whether the storage capacity of the memory of the
reception apparatus 20 is sufficient in step S1302. When the
storage capacity of the memory is determined to be sufficient, in
step S1304, the reception apparatus 20 stores the received NRT
content in the memory of the reception apparatus 20. However, when
the storage capacity of the memory is determined to be
insufficient, in step S1306 the reception apparatus 20 instructs an
external device (e.g., the cloud-based storage system 40), either
directly or through an intermediary system, to store the NRT
content broadcast from the content source for subsequent streaming
to the reception apparatus 20 or another device. As described
above, the NRT content can be streamed via, for example, DASH or
RTP over an IP network.
[0117] In step S1206, the reception apparatus 20 outputs the NRT
content stored in the memory for presentation to a user of the
reception apparatus 20. In one embodiment, the NRT content is
presented during an associated primary content broadcast. Depending
on the embodiment, the NRT content is presented in response to a
request from the user or according to a predetermined schedule set
by, for example, the NRT content provider.
[0118] In other embodiments, the reception apparatus 20 skips steps
S1204 and S1206. For example, the reception apparatus 20 skips step
S1204 when the external device can receive the NRT content from a
source different from the reception apparatus 20. Further, the
reception apparatus 20, in one embodiment, skips step S1206 upon
receipt of a request to store the NRT content for presentation at a
later date.
[0119] In step S1208, the reception apparatus 20 receives a request
to store the NRT content in the external device. The external
device may be selected from a list of available devices, designated
by user at the time of the request, or predetermined. For example,
a user of the reception apparatus 20 may have previously registered
a cloud-based storage account to which the NRT content is to be
stored. However, as described above, the NRT content may be stored
in any networked external device (e.g., content source 10, another
reception apparatus 20, MNO 50, etc.)
[0120] In response to receiving the request to store the NRT
content in the external device, in step S1210, the reception
apparatus 20 sends an instruction via a communication network
(e.g., the Internet, a cellular network, a home network, etc.) to
store the NRT content in the external device. Depending on the
embodiment, the reception apparatus 20 may or may not send the NRT
content concurrently with or after the request. For example, when
the NRT content is stored in the memory of the reception apparatus
20, the reception apparatus 20 sends the NRT content along with any
necessary account information to store the NRT content in the
external device. In other embodiments, the reception apparatus 20
instructs an intermediary system to send the NRT content to the
external device or instructs the external device to download, or
otherwise retrieve, the NRT content. For example, the external
device may be configured to receive the digital television
broadcast signal and to download selected NRT content from the
digital television broadcast signal.
[0121] In one embodiment, content can be stored in a local home
computer that streams the NRT content (e.g., large movie size
files) to the reception apparatus 20 or another designated device
(e.g., a big screen television).
[0122] Further, in one embodiment, the reception apparatus 20
determines whether the external device has sufficient memory to
store the NRT content prior to sending the storage request or the
NRT content. For example, the reception apparatus 20 may request
the available storage space from one or more external devices and
either automatically select an appropriate external device or
display the storage options to a user of the reception apparatus
20. Further, the user may register a new external device or storage
account to store the NRT content.
[0123] FIG. 14 illustrates an exemplary MPEG-2 TS. Primary content
included in the MPEG-2 TS are described with a Terrestrial Virtual
Channel Table (TVCT), which is generated by the reception apparatus
20. The sub-channels, in the TVCT, from a broadcaster (8.1, 8.2,
8.3 for example) are filled in by the reception apparatus 20. The
channel listing (e.g., 5.1, 8.1, 8.2, 8.3, 10.1, 12.1, 12.2, 15.1)
is this TVCT. It is generated by each reception apparatus 20 (e.g.,
TV receiver). The reception apparatus 20 fills this table in when
it does a scan of the spectrum to find broadcast channels. The
MPEG-2 TS includes Program Association Tables that list all primary
content available in the MPEG-2 TS. Each primary content in the PAT
has an associated PID for its PMT. The PMT provides information
such as a program number and lists of elementary streams that
comprise the program. Each program within a channel is described by
a PMT which has a unique PID. Elementary streams associated with
that program have PIDs listed in that PMT and the reception
apparatus 20 only has to decode the payload of certain PIDs to
receive all content for a program. Further, as illustrated in FIG.
14, some data in the PID could have a DSMCC description which
contains datagram data bytes for NRT content.
[0124] In one embodiment, NRT content and metadata, for example as
outlined in FIG. 16 (under Content #1), are tunneled into MPEG-2
transport streams via the use of, for example, ATSC A/90 and A/92
standards, which provide a way to package IP packets into an MPEG-2
TS. Examples of metadata include secondary audio channels,
emergency service alerts, further information from the program,
etc. The NRT content is described via the use of tables which are
located at a certain IP address (e.g., 224.0.23.60) on port 4937,
which is referred to as an SSC. This address is registered with the
Internet Assigned Numbers Authority so it is accessible from any
device. The SSC contains a SMT, NRT-IT and Text Fragment Table
(TFT), as illustrated in FIG. 16, to describe the NRT content and
where it is located. The NRT-IT contains NRT metadata which (one
piece) has content linkage information which points to an FDT
containing the location of NRT content (whether locally or
externally to a device). An application processor (e.g., processor
300) of the reception apparatus 20 knows the receiver IP address
and differentiates it from received content address locations.
[0125] The FLUTE FDT table usually has the local memory location of
services (e.g., television programs, video/audio, NRT content,
interactive portals, etc.), IP addresses for RSS feeds or other NRT
related data.
[0126] As described above, certain embodiments of the present
disclosure allow a reception apparatus 20 to search for content on
other near-by IP based locations. Thus, the need for large memories
in the reception apparatus 20 to provide NRT content such as next
generation broadcast services is reduced.
[0127] Further, as described above in one embodiment, NRT content
is trickle downloaded to a reception apparatus 20. When the
reception apparatus 20 is memory constrained, not all NRT content
from all digital television channels are stored. Instead, only the
NRT content for television channels most viewed by a user. Thus, in
one embodiment, the memory storage is based on user viewing habits.
When a user explores other television channels, the NRT could would
have to be trickle downloaded to that device again from the
corresponding content source 10. However, if a neighbor has that
NRT content available, it can be recognized by the reception
apparatus 20 and quickly accessed for viewing without the need to
wait for a trickle download of the NRT content.
[0128] FIG. 15 illustrates an exemplary IP packet for the NRT
content. As illustrated in FIG. 15, the packet includes
source/destination addresses.
[0129] FIG. 16 illustrates an example of the information provided
by the SSC in accordance with the ATSC standard A/103. Just like
PAT describes services in a TS, the NRT-IT describes where NRT
services are located at certain IP addresses. Each content ID
(elementary service) is referenced in a FLUTE FDT. The TFT is not
necessary, but provides more information about the content.
[0130] The various processes discussed above need not be processed
chronologically and/or in the sequence depicted as flowcharts; the
steps may also include those processed in parallel or individually
(e.g., in paralleled or object-oriented fashion).
[0131] Also, the programs may be processed by a single computer or
by a plurality of computers on a distributed basis. The programs
may also be transferred to a remote computer or computers for
execution.
[0132] Furthermore, in this specification, the term "system" means
an aggregate of a plurality of component elements (apparatuses,
modules (parts), etc.). All component elements may or may not be
housed in a single enclosure. Therefore, a plurality of apparatuses
each housed in a separate enclosure and connected via a network are
considered a network, and a single apparatus formed by a plurality
of modules housed in a single enclosure are also regarded as a
system.
[0133] Also, it should be understood that this technology when
embodied is not limited to the above-described embodiments and that
various modifications, variations and alternatives may be made of
this technology so far as they are within the spirit and scope
thereof.
[0134] For example, this technology may be structured for cloud
computing whereby a single function is shared and processed in
collaboration among a plurality of apparatuses via a network.
[0135] Also, each of the steps explained in reference to the
above-described flowcharts may be executed not only by a single
apparatus but also by a plurality of apparatuses in a shared
manner.
[0136] Furthermore, if one step includes a plurality of processes,
these processes included in the step may be performed not only by a
single apparatus but also by a plurality of apparatuses in a shared
manner.
[0137] In one embodiment, the reception apparatus 20 includes one
or a combination of hardware and preinstalled programming to
perform the methods described in the present disclosure. In other
embodiments, one or a combination of the methods are performed by
at least one TDO received and executed by the reception apparatus
20.
[0138] Numerous modifications and variations of the present
disclosure are possible in light of the above teachings. It is
therefore to be understood that within the scope of the appended
claims, the invention may be practiced otherwise than as
specifically described herein.
[0139] The above disclosure encompasses the embodiments noted
below:
[0140] (1) A reception apparatus, including a receiver configured
to receive non-real-time (NRT) content included in a digital
television broadcast signal broadcast from a content source; a
memory configured to store the received NRT content included in the
digital television broadcast signal broadcast from the content
source; at least one processor configured to output the NRT content
stored in the memory for presentation to a user, to receive a
request to store the NRT content in an external device, and in
response to receiving the request to store the NRT content in the
external device, to send an instruction via a communication network
to store the NRT content in the external device.
[0141] (2) The reception apparatus of feature (1), in which the
reception apparatus is a mobile device, and the receiver is
configured to receive the NRT content from a mobile network
operator (MNO) that receives the digital television broadcast
signal broadcast from the content source and downloads the NRT
content from the digital television broadcast signal.
[0142] (3) The reception apparatus of feature (2), in which the at
least one processor is configured, in response to receiving the
request to store the NRT content in the external device to instruct
the MNO to store the NRT content in the external device.
[0143] (4) The reception apparatus of any of features (1) to (3),
in which the at least one processor is configured, in response to
receiving the request to store the NRT content, to send the NRT
content stored in the memory to the external device via the
communication network.
[0144] (5) The reception apparatus of any of features (1) to (4),
in which the at least one processor is configured in response to a
request for the NRT content, to determine whether available storage
capacity of the memory is sufficient to store the NRT content, when
the at least one processor determines the storage capacity of the
memory is insufficient, to instruct the external device to store
the NRT content broadcast from the content source for subsequent
streaming to the reception apparatus, and when the at least one
processor determines the storage capacity of the memory is
sufficient, to store the received NRT content in the memory.
[0145] (6) The reception apparatus of any of features (1) to (5),
in which the at least one processor is configured, in response to
receiving the request to store the NRT content, to send an
instruction to the external device to download the NRT content from
the digital television broadcast signal broadcast from the content
source.
[0146] (7) The reception apparatus of any of features (1) to (6),
in which the receiver includes a tuner configured to receive the
digital television broadcast signal.
[0147] (8) The reception apparatus of any of features (1) to (7),
in which the NRT content is associated with primary content
included in the digital television broadcast signal.
[0148] (9) A method of a reception apparatus for storing
non-real-time (NRT) content, including receiving, by a receiver of
the reception apparatus, the NRT content included in a digital
television broadcast signal broadcast from a content source;
storing, in a memory of the reception apparatus, the received NRT
content included in the digital television broadcast signal
broadcast from the content source; outputting, by the reception
apparatus, the NRT content stored in the memory for presentation to
a user; receiving, by a processor of the reception apparatus, a
request to store the NRT content in an external device; and in
response to receiving the request to store the NRT content in the
external device, sending an instruction via a communication network
to store the NRT content in the external device.
[0149] (10) The method of feature (9), in which the reception
apparatus is a mobile device, and the step of receiving the NRT
content includes receiving the NRT content from a mobile network
operator (MNO) that receives the digital television broadcast
signal from the content source and downloads the NRT content from
the digital television broadcast signal.
[0150] (11) The method of feature (10), in which the step of
sending the instruction includes sending the instruction to the MNO
to store the NRT content in the external device.
[0151] (12) The method of any of features (9) to (11), in which the
step of sending the instruction includes sending, by the reception
apparatus, the NRT content stored in the memory to the external
device via the communication network.
[0152] (13) The method of any of features (9) to (12), further
including in response to a request for the NRT content, determining
whether available storage capacity of the memory is sufficient to
store the NRT content, when the storage capacity of the memory is
determined to be insufficient, to instruct the external device to
store the NRT content broadcast from the content source for
subsequent streaming to the reception apparatus, and when the
storage capacity of the memory is determined to be sufficient, to
perform the step of storing in the memory of the reception
apparatus the received NRT content.
[0153] (14) The method of any of features (9) to (13), further
including in response to receiving the request to store the NRT
content, sending an instruction to the external device to download
the NRT content from the digital television broadcast signal
broadcast from the content source.
[0154] (15) The method of any of features (9) to (14), in which the
step of receiving the NRT content includes receiving, by a tuner of
the receiver, the digital television broadcast signal.
[0155] (16) The method of any of features (9) to (15), in which the
NRT content is associated with primary content included in the
digital television broadcast signal.
[0156] (17) A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium
having embedded therein instructions which, when executed by a
computer, cause the computer to perform a method for storing
non-real-time (NRT) content, the method including receiving, by a
receiver of a reception apparatus, the NRT content included in a
digital television broadcast signal broadcast from a content
source; storing, in a memory of the reception apparatus, the
received NRT content included in the digital television broadcast
signal broadcast from the content source; outputting, by the
reception apparatus, the NRT content stored in the memory for
presentation to a user; receiving, by a processor of the reception
apparatus, a request to store the NRT content in an external
device; and in response to receiving the request to store the NRT
content in the external device, sending an instruction via a
communication network to store the NRT content in the external
device.
[0157] (18) A distribution system, including a receiver configured
to receive a digital television broadcast signal including
non-real-time (NRT) content broadcast from a content source; a
memory configured to store the NRT content broadcast from the
content source; at least one processor configured to provide the
NRT content to a reception apparatus, and to receive a request to
store the NRT content for retrieval on demand by a user.
[0158] (19) The distribution system of feature (18), in which the
at least one processor is configured to provide the NRT content to
the reception apparatus in response to receiving a request for the
NRT content from the reception apparatus.
[0159] (20) The distribution system of feature (18) or (19), in
which the distribution system is a mobile network operator (MNO),
and the at least one processor is configured to provide the NRT
content to the reception apparatus via an evolved Multicast
Broadcast Multimedia Service (eMBMS) signal broadcast from the
distribution system.
* * * * *